This time of year there are so many colds, viruses and germs flying about, but is there any way we can prevent them or at least keep them at bay a little? There is no full proof way but following the tips below may help, when fighting or preventing winter bugs.

  1. Eat  a Balanced diet. You need minerals and vitamins to support your immune system. Eat as much fresh fruit and veg as you can each day to help maintain your well being.  Vitamin C is particularly good for fighting colds and flu type viruses and can help reduce the severity.
  2. Drink plenty of clean water. Stay hydrated as this is one of the best things you can do for your health.  For an extra boost add slice of lemon, to provide extra vitamin C
  3. Use herbs and spices. Cook with onions, garlic, ginger, curry and turmeric and fresh chillies. These are all natural products and have so many benefits to the whole body and can help fight against unwanted germs.
  4. Try to get 7-8 hours sleep a day. Chronic fatigue is known to increase the risk of illness. The body rejuvenates and strengthens when it is resting.  If you cant get a full 7-8 hours on the night, try to take some naps during the day if your lifestyle will allow.
  5. Include vitamin D. During this time of year there is less daylight and less sun so you should try to increase your vitamin D but eating fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel.  Also you need to include some free range eggs and cheese.
  6. Get regular exercise. Regular exercise improves your cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure and helps control body weight and so can protect against a variety of diseases. It can also help to boost your immune system naturally and keep it healthy. Scientists believe exercise can improve circulation and allows the blood cells to move through the body freely and do their job more efficiently.
  7. Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol. Smoking as we know has no benefits to the body but it can also reduce the efficiency of the immune system. Also you need to monitor your intake of booze.. Alcohol in moderation can have its benefits, however binge drinking can have very negative affects on how the body works. Excess alcohol causes a change in the immune system by altering the cells and molecules in the body. This change slows your ability to ward off infections – for up to 24 hours after getting drunk.

We cannot prevent colds and viruses but taking some of the above tips on board most reduce the severity.

Bev xx